Think LinkedIn is just about text posts and articles? Think again. Video is taking over the platform – and fast. In 2024 alone, video watch time on LinkedIn grew by 36%, and short-form video creation is now booming at twice the rate of other post types. That’s a clear sign: video is no longer optional if you want to stand out and grow your audience on LinkedIn. In this article, we’ll walk you through why video matters on LinkedIn, and how to create video content that actually performs.
Why is video important on LinkedIn?
Let’s start with this: people don’t come to LinkedIn just to scroll. They come to learn, network, and grow professionally. That means content on the platform needs to deliver value and video – when done right, is one of the most engaging ways to do it.
Short-form video content is especially powerful. As younger, mobile-first professionals join LinkedIn, they naturally gravitate toward the content format they’re used to – short, punchy, vertical videos, like the ones they see on TikTok or Instagram Reels.
But remember: LinkedIn isn’t TikTok. Your content should be just as engaging, but with a clear professional focus.Well-made video content can help you:
- Increase your visibility
- Build credibility in your field
- Humanize your brand or professional image
- Drive more engagement and conversations
So if you want your content to be seen and remembered – it’s time to press record.
How to create high-performing videos for LinkedIn
Creating great videos on LinkedIn is more than just starting the record. It’s about being strategic and intentional. Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your efforts:
1. Focus on purpose and authenticity
LinkedIn isn’t the place for random trends or flashy distractions – it’s where people come to learn, grow, and connect on a professional level. When creating video content, always start with your audience in mind. What challenges are they facing? What knowledge can you offer that will genuinely help them? Share valuable insights, practical tips, or lessons learned from your own experience. The more relevant your message, the more likely it is to resonate.
Authenticity is key. You don’t need to sound overly polished or scripted – just be real. Speak naturally, use your own voice, and let your personality come through. People connect with people, not brands or buzzwords. When your content feels human and purposeful, you build trust – and trust is what drives engagement on LinkedIn.
Source: BDM
2. Keep it short and to the point
Time is a premium on LinkedIn. Most users are professionals juggling busy schedules, so concise content tends to perform better. Aim for clarity and brevity – deliver your message in a way that’s easy to grasp without dragging it out. For top-of-funnel awareness videos, keep things between 15-30 seconds. For slightly deeper content, like how-tos or thought leadership, stay under 2 minutes.
This doesn’t mean rushing through your points. Instead, it’s about being intentional: cut the fluff, stay focused, and make every second count. Respecting your audience’s time shows you understand their world – and that consideration encourages them to keep watching, and come back for more.
3. Optimize for mobile
Most LinkedIn users are scrolling on their phones, often during a break, on the go, or in between meetings. That’s why it’s crucial to design your videos for mobile viewing. Use mobile-friendly formats like square (1:1) or vertical (9:16) that take up more screen space. This makes your content more visually engaging and less likely to be skipped.
Also, don’t assume people are watching with sound. Many users keep videos muted by default, so always include captions or subtitles to convey your message clearly. Adding simple text overlays can also reinforce key points or guide the viewer through your narrative. A well-chosen thumbnail is your video’s first impression – make sure it stands out and represents the content inside.
Source: Invideo
4. Hook your audience in the first 3 seconds
You have just a few seconds to earn someone’s attention. If you waste that time on a slow intro, chances are people will scroll right past. Start with something that immediately grabs interest: a bold question, a surprising statistic, a powerful visual, or a statement that challenges assumptions. Your goal is to create a “pause scroll” moment – something that stops them mid-swipe.
Once you’ve got their attention, move quickly into the core of your message. Avoid long setups or explanations. Let viewers know right away why they should keep watching – whether it’s to learn something useful, gain a new perspective, or hear an unexpected insight. The faster you deliver value, the more likely they are to stay engaged.
Source: Flockler
5. Prioritize quality – visual and audio
LinkedIn is a professional network, and the expectations for content quality are higher than on casual platforms. That doesn’t mean you need a full studio setup, but your video should still look and sound intentional. Blurry footage, dark lighting, or echoing audio can distract from your message and diminish your credibility.
A few affordable upgrades can make a big difference. Invest in a ring light or record near a window for natural lighting. Use an external microphone to ensure your voice is clear and easy to hear. Pay attention to background noise and composition – a clean, quiet space helps viewers focus on what you’re saying. High-quality content signals that you take both your work and your audience seriously.
Source: Instapage
6. Include a clear call-to-action
Every video should serve a purpose – and that means giving viewers a clear next step. Don’t leave them wondering what to do after watching. Whether you want them to comment, follow, share, visit a link, or check out your website, say it explicitly. A strong call-to-action (CTA) turns passive viewers into active participants.
Keep your CTA simple and aligned with your message. For example: “Follow for more leadership tips,” “What’s your experience with this? Share in the comments,” or “Click the link in the post to learn more.” When people know what’s expected, they’re far more likely to engage – and over time, that engagement builds visibility and credibility for your content.
Long story short
Video is quickly becoming one of the most effective ways to boost your presence on LinkedIn. If you want to stay ahead of the curve, now’s the time to experiment, refine your approach, and show up consistently with content that informs, engages, and inspires.
The Linked Blog is here to help you or your brand have the best possible LinkedIn presence, so feel free to contact us if you need help! See more about what we can do for you here.
